Jazz was born in New Orleans, but it evolved and flourished in Harlem. Legendary artists like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holliday, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis played Harlem. Jazz genres like Swing, Bebop, Latin and Cool Jazz were born there, and the neighborhood once teemed with renowned Jazz clubs. Now, after decades of decline, […]
Tag Archives | African American
Explore NYC’s Black History (Updated 2015)
African Americans have been an integral part of NYC since it’s founding. While the first Black residents were bought to the city against their will, African Americans eventually streamed into NYC from all over the country (and the world), seeking a better life. February is Black History Month. Here are some ways to celebrate the […]
The Underground Railroad in New York City
The Underground Railroad, a network of safe havens that helped American slaves escape captivity, ran directly through New York City. In fact, the New York stops were an important junction on the journey to liberty. In dozens of homes, churches and businesses throughout the city, brave New Yorkers helped thousands of African American slaves escape […]
How to Hear Gospel in Harlem
Walks of New York runs group walking tours around the most interesting and iconic sites in NYC – If you’re planning a trip, come join us! Hearing Gospel in Harlem is one of the finest musical treats New York City has to offer. But unlike with other forms of music, New York has no commercial […]
New York’s African Burial Ground
New York City’s African Burial Ground is a hallowed place in Lower Manhattan. A national monument, it is the historic final resting place of approximately 15,000 African New Yorkers, both free and enslaved. History of the African Burial Ground Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the African Burial Ground was the most significant site for […]
Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival
Harlem has produced some of the world’s greatest jazz artists, composers, and innovations. The Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival celebrates the neighborhood’s legendary jazz clubs and venues, including the Apollo Theater, Minton’s Playhouse, Lenox Lounge, Showman’s Jazz Club, and Small’s Paradise. May 7 – 13, 2012, the festival will celebrate these historic venues and the music […]
Who Is Shirley Chisholm?
Who is Shirley Chisholm? Well, she’s a woman you should know about! “Just wait, there may be some fireworks,” she predicted… when she was elected the first black woman to serve in the United States Congress. Shirley Chisholm broke barriers of race and gender—all while being driven, seemingly fearless, and outspoken (with a sly sense of […]